Georgia’s decision to forgo health care exchange the correct one, Gingrey says

Gov. Nathan Deal’s decision to forgo establishing a state health care exchange as prescribed by Obamacare was the correct one, a Georgia congressman said.

“Gov. Deal’s decision to safeguard Georgia taxpayers and patients from a costly, federally-restricted health care exchange is a demonstration in fiscal responsibility,” U.S. Rep. Phil Gingrey, R-Ga., said in a statement. Gingrey is a doctor.

“Furthermore, it reinforces the message to President Obama that, despite his reelection, his health care law remains a disastrous, unpopular policy,” Gingrey said. “While Democrats were content to pass a $1 trillion dollar law without understanding its implications, it is reassuring to know that Gov. Deal and other state leaders refuse to follow suit. As a physician for more than 30 years, I support the governor’s decision to protect patients from federal bureaucrats dictating the type of health care they receive.”

Deal, a former congressman, said Friday Georgia will not set up its own health care exchange under Obamacare, insisting the state will not spend “our tax dollars on an exchange that is state-based in name only.” Friday was the deadline for states to inform the feds whether they planned to establish an exchange.

While the U.S. Supreme Court upheld Obamacare, the nation’s highest court said the exchanges were optional.